53+ Heartfelt DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids

DIY Father’s Day gifts from kids are heartfelt, personalized creations that show love and appreciation for dads. DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids often include crafts, handmade cards, or unique projects made using materials like paper, clay, or paint. The beauty of DIY gifts is that they reflect the child’s creativity and effort, making them even more meaningful. Whether it’s a handprint art, a homemade mug, or a decorated picture frame, these thoughtful gifts offer a special way for children to express their feelings and create lasting memories.

Handprint Art

Handprint art is a heartfelt and creative way for kids to make something unique for their dads. This idea is perfect for younger children, and it can become a keepsake for years to come. The handprints symbolize their growing bond and a sweet reminder of their little hands at the time of the gift.

Materials Needed:

• Non-toxic paint
• Paper or canvas
• Marker or pen
• Wet wipes or a damp towel for cleaning hands

Steps:

1. Start by dipping your child’s hands into the non-toxic paint of your choice.
2. Press the painted hands onto the paper or canvas to create the handprint.
3. Once the handprints are dry, you can add a personal message or design around it using a marker or pen, like “Best Dad Ever” or “I love you, Dad.”
4. Allow the artwork to dry completely before framing it.

DIY Dad’s Mug

A personalized mug with a design or message from the kids can make a perfect and practical gift for Father’s Day. This DIY gift is both fun to make and useful for dad when drinking his favorite beverages.

Materials Needed:

• White ceramic mug
• Permanent markers or paint pens
• Tape (optional for stencils)
• Oven (to set the design)

Steps:

1. Clean the ceramic mug to remove any dust or grease.
2. Let the kids draw their favorite designs or write messages on the mug with the permanent markers or paint pens.
3. If you want to create stencils, tape them onto the mug and color them in.
4. Once the design is complete, place the mug in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes to set the ink.
5. Let the mug cool completely before wrapping it up for Father’s Day.

Personalized Keychain

A personalized keychain is a great keepsake and is also a functional gift. It’s simple to make and can be customized with the child’s artwork, name, or a special message.

Materials Needed:

• Shrink plastic sheet
• Permanent markers
• Hole puncher
• Keychain rings
• Scissors
• Oven

Steps:

1. Cut a piece of shrink plastic into the desired shape for the keychain.
2. Have the child draw a design, their name, or a small picture on the plastic using permanent markers.
3. Punch a hole at the top of the shape for the keychain ring.
4. Bake the plastic according to the instructions (usually around 350°F for 3-5 minutes) to shrink and harden it.
5. Once it cools, attach the keychain ring and you have a customized keychain.

DIY Photo Frame

A DIY photo frame can be made with materials like popsicle sticks, buttons, or clay. It’s a meaningful gift that can showcase a favorite photo of the kids with their dad.

Materials Needed:

• Popsicle sticks
• Glue
• Paint (optional)
• Buttons or other decorative elements
• Photo

Steps:

1. Arrange the popsicle sticks into a square or rectangular frame shape.
2. Glue them together at the edges, ensuring they form a sturdy structure.
3. Once the frame is set, paint it if desired, or glue buttons or other small decorations around the frame.
4. Place the photo inside the frame and glue it into place.
5. Allow the glue and paint to dry, and then wrap it for Father’s Day.

Handmade Coupons

Handmade coupons are a thoughtful and personal gift. These can be filled with promises like “a free hug,” “help with chores,” or “a movie night.” It’s a great way for kids to offer their time and affection to their dad.

Materials Needed:

• Paper or cardstock
• Markers or pens
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut the paper or cardstock into coupon-sized pieces.
2. Have the kids write different acts of kindness, like “One free back rub” or “One hour of help with cleaning.”
3. Decorate each coupon with drawings, stickers, or additional messages.
4. Fold the coupons and tie them with a ribbon or place them in a small box for gifting.

Personalized T-shirt by Kids

A personalized t-shirt with a design or phrase that’s meaningful to the kids and their dad can be a fun and wearable gift. It allows kids to show their creativity while making a gift that dad can wear proudly.

Materials Needed:

• Plain t-shirt
• Fabric paint or markers
• Stencils (optional)

Steps:

1. Lay the t-shirt flat and prepare it for decorating.
2. The kids can use fabric paint or markers to draw designs, write messages, or create handprints.
3. If using stencils, place them on the shirt and paint inside the design.
4. Allow the paint to dry completely.
5. For best results, follow the instructions on the fabric paint to heat-set the design, typically with an iron.

Memory Jar By kids

A memory jar is a great way to capture sweet moments and fond memories throughout the year. Kids can write down fun or loving memories they share with their dad and place them in the jar.

Materials Needed:

• Jar (mason jar or any clear jar)
• Paper (cut into small strips)
• Pens
• Ribbon (optional for decoration)

Steps:

1. Cut small pieces of paper for writing the memories.
2. Have the kids write down special moments they’ve shared with their dad or what they love about him.
3. Fold the pieces of paper and place them inside the jar.
4. Decorate the jar with ribbon or stickers if desired.
5. On Father’s Day, dad can open the jar and read the sweet messages.

Custom Coasters Gift

A set of custom coasters makes for a functional and personal gift. Kids can use their creativity to design coasters that will keep dad’s surfaces protected while adding a personal touch to the home.

Materials Needed:

• Plain cork coasters
• Paint or markers
• Mod Podge (optional for sealing)

Steps:

1. Have the kids design their coasters with paint, markers, or stickers.
2. Let the paint dry completely.
3. If desired, seal the coasters with Mod Podge to protect the artwork.
4. Allow everything to dry and package the coasters in a neat set.

Rock Paperweight

A personalized rock paperweight is a simple, nature-inspired gift that can add a meaningful touch to dad’s desk. Kids can decorate the rock with their art and make it unique.

Materials Needed:

• Smooth, flat rock
• Paint
• Paintbrushes
• Clear sealer (optional)

Steps:

1. Find a smooth, flat rock that will serve as the base for the paperweight.
2. Paint the rock with designs, such as a heart, dad’s initials, or other fun patterns.
3. Allow the paint to dry, and if desired, apply a coat of clear sealer to protect the paint.
4. Wrap the rock as a gift.

DIY Father’s Day Card

A handmade Father’s Day card is always appreciated. It allows kids to express their love in their own creative way, whether through drawings, messages, or personal touches.

Materials Needed:

• Paper or cardstock
• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
• Stickers (optional)

Steps:

1. Fold a piece of cardstock in half to form the card.
2. Let the kids decorate the front of the card with drawings, messages, or stickers.
3. Inside the card, add a heartfelt note from the child.
4. Once completed, add a personal touch like glitter or a drawing of dad’s favorite things.

Clay Handprint Ornament

A clay handprint ornament is a lasting keepsake that dads can hang up during the holidays or keep as a memory. The kids’ handprints in clay create a timeless reminder of their little hands.

Materials Needed:

• Air-dry clay
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (optional)
• Ribbon
• Paint or markers for decoration

Steps:

1. Roll out the clay using a rolling pin to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Have the child press their hand into the clay to make an impression.
3. Cut the clay into a desired shape using a cookie cutter or freehand it.
4. Let the clay dry according to the package instructions.
5. Once dry, decorate the handprint with paint or markers, and tie a ribbon through a hole to hang it.

DIY Toolbox

A handmade toolbox made by the kids can be a special gift for dads who love working with tools. The kids can create a personalized storage box for dad’s essentials.

Materials Needed:

• Small wooden box (or you can build one)
• Paint or markers
• Paintbrush
• Tools (for assembly)

Steps:

1. Build or buy a small wooden box that can hold tools or other small items.
2. Let the kids decorate it with paint, markers, or stickers.
3. If using a wooden box, be sure to use non-toxic materials for safety.
4. Once the box is decorated, it’s ready to store dad’s tools.

Scented Sachets

A scented sachet made by kids can be a delightful gift, adding a personal touch and a lovely fragrance to dad’s drawer or car.

Materials Needed:

• Small fabric bags or pieces of fabric
• Dried flowers, herbs, or essential oils
• Ribbon or string to tie the sachets

Steps:

1. Fill the fabric bags with dried flowers like lavender, or sprinkle in some essential oils.
2. Tie the bags closed with a ribbon or string.
3. Add a personal touch by decorating the sachets with stickers or tags.
4. Let dad place the sachets in drawers, his closet, or the car for a pleasant scent.

Photo Magnets

A set of personalized photo magnets can brighten up any fridge. The kids can choose their favorite photos with dad and transform them into useful keepsakes.

Materials Needed:

• Photos
• Magnetic sheets
• Scissors
• Glue

Steps:

1. Print out small photos of the kids with dad.
2. Cut the magnetic sheets into small pieces that match the size of the photos.
3. Glue the photos onto the magnetic sheets.
4. Once dry, the magnets are ready to be displayed on the fridge.

Dad’s Favorite Snack Basket

A basket filled with dad’s favorite snacks is a thoughtful and practical gift. The kids can help pick out the snacks and arrange them in a cute gift basket.

Materials Needed:

• Basket or box
• Dad’s favorite snacks (chips, candy, nuts, etc.)
• Tissue paper or filler

Steps:

1. Select a variety of snacks that dad enjoys.
2. Arrange the snacks neatly inside the basket.
3. Add tissue paper or filler to secure everything in place.
4. Add a small tag or card to personalize the basket.

DIY Pencil Holder

A pencil holder made by kids is a perfect addition to dad’s desk. It’s both functional and personal, and the kids can decorate it with their favorite colors or designs.

Materials Needed:

• Empty tin can or small container
• Paint or decorative paper
• Glue
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Clean and dry an empty tin can or small container.
2. Cover it with paint or wrap it in decorative paper.
3. Allow the paint or glue to dry completely.
4. Once dry, dad can use it to store pens, pencils, or other desk items.

Handmade Bookmark

A bookmark is a simple, yet meaningful gift, especially for a dad who enjoys reading. The kids can make a bookmark using materials like cardstock, ribbon, or even a photograph.

Materials Needed:

• Cardstock or thick paper
• Markers, crayons, or pens
• Ribbon or string (optional)

Steps:

1. Cut the cardstock into a bookmark size.
2. Let the kids decorate it with drawings, messages, or stickers.
3. If desired, punch a hole at the top and add a ribbon for decoration.
4. Give the completed bookmark as a personal gift for dad.

Paint a Pot for Dad’s Favorite Plant

A custom-painted plant pot makes a beautiful and meaningful gift. Kids can paint the pot with designs that represent their dad or the family, making it unique and personal.

Materials Needed:

• Plant pot (terracotta or ceramic)
• Paint or markers
• Brushes
• Small plant

Steps:

1. Select a plain plant pot.
2. Have the kids paint the pot with designs, drawings, or messages for dad.
3. Once the paint is dry, place a small plant in the pot.
4. Present it as a thoughtful gift that dad can place on his desk or in the garden.

Dad’s Favorite Recipe Book

If dad enjoys cooking, a personalized recipe book filled with his favorite recipes can make a great gift. Kids can contribute their own “recipes” or write down dad’s favorite dishes.

Materials Needed:

• Blank notebook or scrapbook
• Markers or pens
• Printed recipes or handwritten ones

Steps:

1. Gather recipes that dad loves or that the kids want to share.
2. Write or print the recipes and paste them into the notebook.
3. Decorate the pages with personal notes, drawings, or photos.
4. Bind the book together and present it as a personalized cookbook.

Hand-Painted Rock

A hand-painted rock can be a lovely and simple gift, perfect for dads who enjoy nature or outdoor decor. Kids can paint rocks with messages, designs, or just bright colors.

Materials Needed:

• Smooth rocks
• Paint
• Brushes

Steps:

1. Gather some smooth, flat rocks.
2. Let the kids paint them with designs, colors, or messages.
3. Once the paint is dry, dad can use them as paperweights or place them in the garden.

DIY Cookie Mix Jar

A jar filled with the ingredients for dad’s favorite cookies is a sweet and thoughtful gift. The kids can help layer the ingredients and add a personal touch with a homemade tag.

Materials Needed:

• Mason jar
• Flour, sugar, chocolate chips, and other cookie ingredients
• Ribbon or string
• Tag with baking instructions

Steps:

1. Layer the ingredients for the cookies in the mason jar.
2. Add each ingredient one by one, starting with flour at the bottom and finishing with chocolate chips at the top.
3. Tie a ribbon around the jar and attach a tag with the baking instructions.
4. Gift the jar to dad, who can bake the cookies together with the kids.

DIY Stress Ball

A stress ball made by the kids is a fun and practical gift. It’s easy to make and can provide dad with a way to relieve stress during busy days.

Materials Needed:

• Balloons
• Flour or rice
• Funnel or spoon
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Cut the neck of the balloon off and place a funnel in the opening.
2. Fill the balloon with flour or rice, making it as firm as desired.
3. Tie a knot at the end of the balloon.
4. Optionally, you can decorate the stress ball with markers.
5. Give it to dad as a fun and stress-relieving gift.

DIY Bath Salts

Homemade bath salts can provide relaxation and be a wonderful way for the kids to create something soothing for dad. It’s a thoughtful gift for dads who enjoy taking a relaxing bath.

Materials Needed:

• Epsom salt
• Essential oils
• Food coloring (optional)
• Jars for packaging

Steps:

1. Mix Epsom salt with a few drops of essential oil for fragrance.
2. If desired, add food coloring to make the salts more vibrant.
3. Package the bath salts in jars and decorate them with ribbon or a label.
4. Dad can use the bath salts for a relaxing bath experience.

Lego Frame

A Lego frame is a creative way to display family photos. Kids can build a frame using Lego pieces that fits their favorite photo with dad.

Materials Needed:

• Lego pieces
• Photo
• Glue (optional)

Steps:

1. Build a frame using the Lego pieces, arranging them around the photo.
2. Secure the photo in place with glue if needed.
3. Add any additional decorative touches with the Lego pieces.
4. Present the Lego frame as a unique gift.

Personalized Calendar

A personalized calendar featuring photos or artwork created by the kids is a great gift for dads who like to keep track of their schedules. It’s both functional and meaningful.

Materials Needed:

• Calendar template or printable
• Photos of the kids with dad
• Markers or pens

Steps:

1. Select a calendar template or create a custom one online.
2. Insert photos of the kids with dad for each month.
3. Write down important dates and events, like dad’s birthday or family anniversaries.
4. Print the calendar and gift it to dad for the year ahead.

DIY Paperweight

A personalized paperweight is a functional gift that can be customized with artwork from the kids. This is a great option for dads who work in an office.

Materials Needed:

• Clay or air-dry clay
• Paint or markers
• Decorative stones (optional)

Steps:

1. Shape the clay into a small round or square paperweight.
2. Have the kids decorate the paperweight with paint, drawings, or other designs.
3. Let the paperweight dry and harden.
4. If desired, add decorative stones for extra weight.
5. Give it to dad for his desk or workspace.

Custom Tote Bag

A custom tote bag with designs made by the kids is a great gift for dads who are always on the go. The kids can decorate the bag with artwork or messages.

Materials Needed:

• Plain tote bag
• Fabric paint or markers
• Brushes

Steps:

1. Lay the tote bag flat and prepare it for decorating.
2. Let the kids use fabric paint or markers to create a design, like their favorite colors or a picture.
3. Allow the paint to dry completely before dad uses the tote bag.

Wrapping and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to gift-giving, the presentation can be just as important as the gift itself. Thoughtful wrapping and creative touches can elevate the entire experience, making your gift feel extra special. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

1. Using Craft Paper, Twine, and Ribbon for a Rustic Look
   Opt for brown craft paper as your base, which provides a simple and rustic aesthetic. Add a natural touch with twine or a burlap ribbon. You can even incorporate dried flowers or pinecones for added charm, perfect for a cozy, handmade feel.
2. Personalizing Gift Bags with Stickers or Hand-Drawn Designs
   Take gift bags to the next level by customizing them with your own artwork. Use stickers, stamps, or draw on designs yourself to add a personal touch. Whether it’s a cute doodle or a meaningful symbol, these small details show you put thought into the presentation.
3. Creating a Memorable Card to Accompany the Gift
   A heartfelt note is always appreciated. Create a memorable card by crafting it yourself or picking one that complements your gift’s theme. Include a personal message that reflects your relationship with the recipient, making it a keepsake they can cherish.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Creative Gift-Giving

Gift-giving doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity, you can create memorable, personalized presents without spending a fortune. Here are some budget-friendly tips for crafting meaningful gifts that won’t strain your wallet:

1. Repurpose Household Items for Creative Gifts
   • Look around your home for items you can repurpose, such as old picture frames, jars, or fabric scraps. With a bit of creativity, these everyday objects can be transformed into unique and thoughtful gifts. For example, a jar can be turned into a candle holder, or a fabric scrap can be sewn into a decorative pillow.
2. Shop for Materials on a Budget
   • Visit local craft stores or dollar stores to find affordable materials for your DIY gifts. These stores often carry a wide range of items that can be used to create beautiful presents, from paints and beads to ribbons and fabric. Take advantage of sales, clearance sections, and seasonal items for even bigger savings.
3. Upcycle Old Clothes or Containers
   • Transform old clothes, accessories, or containers into something new. Turn a worn T-shirt into a stylish tote bag or re-use glass containers to create personalized gift sets, like homemade bath salts or cookies. Upcycling is a sustainable way to save money while giving new life to items that might otherwise be discarded.

FAQ

What are some easy DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids?

Kids can make handprint art, personalized mugs, DIY photo frames, or homemade coupons for chores or fun activities. Simple DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids like painted rocks or a custom card with heartfelt messages are also great choices.

How can kids personalize a DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids?

Personalizing a gift can involve adding a special message, using photos, or incorporating the dad’s favorite colors or hobbies. Kids can draw or write something unique to make the gift feel more meaningful and personal.

What materials are needed for a DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids?

Materials vary depending on the gift, but common items include craft paper, markers, glue, scissors, paint, photo frames, and small objects like buttons, beads, or wooden blocks. For more advanced projects, you may need a hot glue gun, wooden pieces, or fabric.

Are there any eco-friendly DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids?

Yes! You can create DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids using recycled materials like old magazines for collages, fabric scraps for hand-sewn items, or empty jars to make a custom pen holder. Reusing materials adds a personal and sustainable touch to the DIY Father’s Day Gifts From Kids.